Lower Swatara Police said that one student observed another student remove a handgun from where it was hidden in a boy's bathroom and place it in his backpack. The student who observed the incident reported the matter immediately to school staff.

The student with loaded .380 semi-automatic handgun was taken into custody without incident. Officials also determined that the second student had concealed the handgun and was taken into custody without incident.

After questioning the student, police determined another student to be the owner of the handgun.

Both students were taken into custody were charged as juveniles.

Police searched the school and dismissed students during the regular time. Police remained in the school during dismissal, Suski said.

The district posted a message on its website canceling the dances slated to be held hours later at the middle and high schools on Friday night. It said the events would be rescheduled.

Additional law enforcement was present during alumni events held over the weekend.